assault

assault n

OFr < L. *adsaltus, leap.

  1. Ravishment; deflowering; sexual conquest; [fig.] pollenation; transfer of pollen from flower to flower by a bee.
  2. Attack; violent onset.

assault v

OFr < L. ad, to + saltāre, leap, spring.

  1. Attack; criticize; malign; denigrate; reproach; vilify; verbally abuse.